CPT® Code 90671

The CPT® Code 90671 refers to the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, specifically the 15 valent formulation (PCV15), which is intended for intramuscular use. Vaccines, such as PCV15, play a crucial role in providing active and long-term immunity by introducing altered versions of specific pathogens, in this case, pneumococcal bacteria, to the recipient's immune system. This exposure prompts the immune system to produce antibodies that can recognize and combat the actual pathogens if encountered in the future. The pneumococcal bacteria can reside harmlessly in the nasal passages and throat; however, they pose a significant risk when they invade other parts of the body, potentially leading to serious conditions such as pneumococcal pneumonia, bacteremia, and meningitis. Certain populations, including young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems, are particularly vulnerable to these infections. The pneumococcal conjugate vaccines are formulated using a purified component of the bacteria's cell wall, which is combined with a nontoxic variant of diphtheria (CRM197) to enhance the immune response. The vaccines are categorized based on the number of serotypes of Streptococcus pneumoniae they cover. For instance, the 13 valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13), represented by CPT® Code 90670, covers specific serotypes, while the 15 valent vaccine (PCV15), denoted by CPT® Code 90671, includes additional serotypes 22F and 33F, thereby offering broader protection against the most prevalent disease-causing strains globally. The administration of this vaccine is performed via an intramuscular injection, which is a separately reportable procedure in medical coding.